Fence Installation Tips
The ideal fence installation can raise the value of your property, add visual appeal to your curbside area, and provide you with much-needed privacy. Still, there are always some possible issues one encounters when embarking on a project of this nature. This is because getting a fence is not like getting services that provide weekly yard care; it involves the establishment of a permanent barrier between your house and the neighborhood.
The good news is that you can take a few easy steps to ensure that the fence installation process goes as smoothly as possible for everyone involved.
Continue reading for some fence installation tips.
Acquire a Permit
Fences are noticeable structures that influence the surrounding area. Due to this, most places impose zoning laws that govern the fence's properties and the materials used for its construction. Installing a fence without getting approval is dangerous, and you may be caught and fined. The good part is that obtaining a permit is quite easy, and you can apply at your local building and planning office.
Be Aware of Your Property Lines
Before you begin fence installation, make sure that you know where your property lines are. You do not want your fence to cover any public area, such as the road or sidewalks, as you might get in trouble in the future. There may also be laws written by the government as to how your fence should look and the height it may be allowed to have.
Check Before Digging
Before you start digging around, call your local utility service providers. There may be underground wires in the area for utilities like gas, electricity, and the internet. If you risk damaging those wires, it will end up causing a headache for the entire neighborhood as well as disrupting supplies for your own house. This will also cause your neighbors to be annoyed and angry at you.
Plan Your Budget
The costs for fences differ according to the materials used for the fence and the labor employed. A wooden fence costs around $1,727 and $4,335 to build, according to HomeAdvisor. Lumber costs $7 to $15 per foot, while labor typically costs $10 to $30 per foot. The length, height, and type of wood used in the fence are all important factors that need to be considered while building a fence. Additional costs for gates must also be allocated to the project.
Factor Climate
You should factor in your area's general climate when choosing the materials for the fence. A wood fence will not be the ideal choice if you live someplace humid and wet. The climate will cause the wood to decay faster. In this case, metal, chain link, or even composite wood will be better able to withstand the weather conditions. For colder regions, the fence posts should be buried 36 inches deep into the ground; otherwise, they might not withstand the cold and may break. For these regions, wood, bamboo, and metal fences are the recommended choices.
Inform Your Neighbors
Let your neighbors know about your fencing intentions beforehand. Try not to obstruct any of their views without any cause. They might even be interested in installing a shared fence, in which case you can split the costs. However, make sure to formalize any such agreements in writing and consult the property borders for your houses before moving forward with this idea. Making the finished side of your fence face your neighbors is generally regarded as good manners.
Create Entrances
It would be best if you had entrances to get into the walled area when you have the fence installed. Have at least two entrances in mind to ensure safety and convenience. One of these needs to be sufficiently large enough to allow you to carry large items such as lawnmowers and garbage cans through it. Mark your entrance by placing stepping stones or other decorative components that will aid in its identification. The classic white gate is a popular choice and looks simple but still has a sleek and charming element to it.
Be Onsite For Installation
Installing a fence is not like online parcels delivered to your house. They are huge, long-term expenses that permanently affect the appearance of your property, so be present onsite at the time of installation to give yourself complete satisfaction and ease of mind. The working crew can ask you questions regarding your preferences and clarify any of their decisions to you. This communication will be essential for a successful fence installation.
Add The Finishing Touches
Once your fence has been installed, consider giving it a coat of paint to increase its aesthetic appeal. Find the right color which complements the theme of your house. You can also choose to surround it with greenery, small pots, or any other decorations that you think will work with it.
Conclusion
Fence installation is not as simple as it seems. In most cases, building it yourself will cost you less money but will require a huge time and energy investment. It will also create a lot of mess along with not getting the finesse of professionally done work. Most people would be more comfortable hiring professional crews to do the work for them.
This is where Houston's best home improvement services come in; Mr. Handy Dude, who has over 7 years of experience in the field and is known to provide services such as fencing, painting, renovating etc. Call or Email Mr. Handy Dude for a consultation session or an estimate.